MARYLAND (WBFF) — As more data centers start popping up around the state, lawmakers representing Baltimore County said a data center could be coming to the Woodlawn area.
The data center project is being proposed by Security Land and Development LP, and it could include a 150 MW data center complex on a 42-acre site, a donation of 5 acres of land to BGE for the construction of a new electrical substation, and the purchase of a local Rodeway Inn. The construction of the data center and development of the site could begin as early as June or July of 2026, according to Senator Charles Sydnor III.
“Economic development and job creation in the region are significant benefits, but all projects must be evaluated for potential risks to public health, the environment, local infrastructure, and residential quality of life,” said Delegate Aletheia McCaskill. “The well-being of our communities is of highest importance to us, and we must view that well-being holistically.”
ALSO READ | Prince George’s Co. releases data center report with recommendations to protect residents
According to a County spokesperson, a razing permit application was first submitted in April and re-filed in June. However, they said no development plans have been submitted at this time.
“We are bringing to the community all the information we currently have”, said Delegate Sheila Ruth. “Critical decisions on a project that raises as many concerns as this one cannot be finalized without full transparency from the company and extensive community engagement and public input.”
Some current County Council members have weighed in. On social media, Izzy Patoka said, “We need strong protections and safeguards to ensure communities aren’t left footing the bill for corporate energy demands, and that every family can keep the lights on without breaking the bank.”
ALSO READ | As data center demand grows, proposals to protect ratepayers fail
This proposed project comes at a time when tensions surrounding data centers are high, with residents overwhelmingly opposed to the Maryland Piedmont Reliability Project. A proposed 67-mile transmission line, which could threaten farmland in Baltimore County, and is being built in part to support data center development in the region.
As more data centers become a reality, state lawmakers are grappling with the issue of Maryland’s lack of energy supply and strained regional electric grid. Several lawmakers are making a push to require data centers to generate their own energy to reduce potential grid impacts.
“How are we going to provide enough energy to those, those data centers in order to make it a win for the citizens of Maryland?,” Delegate Brian Chisholm said.
“It’s going to be the rate payers, and the taxpayers need to be protected here,” he added.
Local Story
